India, July 17 -- Subdued U.S. and Canadian futures point to a lackluster start for the Canadian shares on Thursday. Weak gold and silver prices are likely to weigh on materials stocks. Energy stocks may find some support and limit market's downside.
In economic news, a report from the Canadian Federation of Independent Business said Canada's CFIB Business Barometer long-term index rose 3.4 points to 50.9 in July, the highest since January and the second reading above the 50-point threshold this year.
Investors will be focusing on the developments on the trade front, and tracking corporate news for directional clues.
Canadian stocks rose closer to previous record highs on Wednesday amid flat US PPI data along with resilient Canadian hous...